William 'Billie Lee' Rogers

William "Billie Lee" Rogers, 76, of Gillespie, died 7:10 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 5, 2010, at his home, surrounded by his family.

He was born Dec. 4, 1933, in Alton, to George and Laura (McNear) Rogers (since deceased).

On Dec. 18, 1982, he married Patty (Baker) Rogers of Gillespie in Alton; she survives.

William retired from the American Water Co. after 34 years. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving in Korea, and was a member of Alton VFW Post No. 1308 and the NRA.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by four daughters and three sons-in-law, Dawn and Ed Dugge of Alton, Dana Rogers of Godfrey, Chris and Gene Sneed of Wood River, and Michelle and Jack Orrill of Jerseyville; two sons and one daughter-in-law, Guy Rogers of Texas and Ronnie and Marcie Abner of Del Ray Beach, Fla.; 17 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; one sister, Greta and Doug Walton of Alton; and one brother, KL and Susan Rogers of Fieldon.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Kendrick Rogers; and late wife Janice Rogers.

Visitation will be 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 8, 2010, at Targhetta and Wooldridge Funeral Home in Brighton, with services at the funeral home 11 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 9, 2010, with the Rev. Glen Greenwood officiating.

Burial will be at Asbury Cemetery in Brighton, with Alton VFW Post No. 1308 Ritual Team providing full military honors.